Khabib defended journalist against Abdel-Aziz at UFC 223, recalls Bostanov

Azamat Bostanov, now an MMA manager, has shared his memories from UFC 223 in Brooklyn eight years ago when Khabib Nurmagomedov won the UFC championship. Bostanov recalls that after he interviewed Artem Lobov following the famous confrontation with Khabib, manager Ali Abdel-Aziz told him emotionally not to approach their team. However, Khabib intervened, putting his arm around Bostanov and telling Abdel-Aziz, "This is our guy, he's just doing his work." Bostanov also remembers that within 20 minutes of rumors that Conor McGregor's team would arrive at the hotel, 20-30 Dagestanis gathered at the entrance to prevent any provocations toward Khabib. He described Khabib as remaining humble and approachable despite his success, always making time to talk with people and showing genuine kindness to fans and media alike.